Ok, Hopfully don’t come off sounding like an idiot but after a 30+ year hiatus from model trains I’ve gotten back into it. I’ve built a small 4x8 DC layout with 7 or 8 blocks and plan to run two trains at once. There are about 5 Turnouts and I was wondering if there is a visual indicator to keep track of the position of the turn outs (not knowing anything about signaling). I know there aren’t a lot of them but it would be nice to have a way to tell visually (aside from looking at the switch) if the train is going to go where you expect it to, which for me might get confusing while trying to switch block selector switches and keep track of both trains running on the main line at once even on this small layout of mine.
/www.walthers.comSure. There are scale switch stands that you can connect to the throwbar. Check Walthers catalog for item 235-914, or 97-103 for a ground throw and stand. Tomar makes a lighted stand – look up Walthers item 81-851. (I’m assuming you’re in HO – there are similar products in N, of course.)
LEDs, whether on a panel, the fascia, or small dwarf signals right on the layout are great.
Just how to do that depends on how you’re throwing your turnouts. If manually either with “the big hand” or a linkage, you’ll need some sort of relay or contacts to connect to the LEds.
If you’re using the Caboose Hobbies ground throws, they include some contacts – all you’d have to do is hook them up!
If you’re using switch motors controlled by panel switches, depending on the type of motor, it’s even easier.
If you’re using Tortoises, there’s a couple of ways. Here’s a link to Tony’s page of various info on Tortoises, including two ways to do it: http://tonystrains.com/technews/tortoise/index.htm
If you’re using a different type of motor, there are ways but I don’t know how. Somebody will no doubt post a solution, or check the manufacturer’s info and/or web site.
Colored light indication from external electrical contacts does the job. Like Real RR’s use
http://www.oregonrail.com/items.html See Dwarf Signals.
Conventional toggles, Tortoise, Rix, and Caboose industries, can actuate the above - otherwise you’ll have to rely on visual alignment. In short, It adds realism.
Great info guys thanks. I forgot to mention I’m modeling HO and I’m using the switch motors that lie next to the turnout that come with said turnout. Not very realistic I know but…
I really like the Caboose Industries ground throws, might have to go with that if it’ll work with Atlas turn outs, I’ll have to do some research but now, at least, I have something to go on in terms of correct terminology. Thanks again.
J.P.
J.P.
It sounds like you’re using Atlas snap switches. The only way to use signal lighting with them is to install an additional relay. The easy way (although it can become a little costly if you need to do a bunch) is to use the atlas relay. It has instructions of how to switch the signal light(s) when you through the switch.
I have use some – although now I’m switching to all Tortoises (much better) – and you can see some photos of the relays in my layout link below.
JXT,
You’re right I’m using Atlas snap turn outs. I took a look at you lay out, Improssive something I’d like to do some day…, I didn’t see the relays which you were talking about but I think I know what you mean, they’re Snap Relays, Right? So the Snap relays operate the signal lights? I have a book…probaly one of the Atlas books I have…that explains the use of them. I’ll have to look into it.
Thanks!
Yes. They are Atlas Snap relays. (Atlas #200; about $7-$8 each). You can see them on page two of my layout photos in the photo called “Control Panel Inside.” I use them to operate both control panel lights and signal lights at trackside (one relay per turnout).
“I really like the Caboose Industries ground throws, … if it’ll work with Atlas turn outs”,
(turnouts, yes. but Switch machines, No).
Atlas twin coil switch machines do not come with extra contacts. Atlas has separate relays can be added for electrical connections. (IE: two machines to do). ADVANTAGE: Mounting. DISADVANTAGE: 2X cost.
CABOOSE 220S ground throws have electrical SPDT contacts. DISADVANTAGE: mounting/assembly.
EASIEST choice. Do without. BEST choice USING RIX switch machines (has contacts).
What you want is easy , but requires some work skills and money to do. After installing my 1st 220S, I bought a Rotory Zip saw for needed elongated hole…